2018-01-03_PERMIT FILE - C1981010 (33)

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DISCUSSION Despite the heavy vegetation cover, as expected the survey yielded cultural resources. One prehistoric site, two historic sites and two linear sites were newly recorded and one prehistoric site was revisited. These sites and their density are consistent with previous finds in the area. Previous studies in the surrounding region have suggested occupation for as long as 11,000 years. Although there is new evidence of Paleoindian Era occupations in the region, there is a higher level of data indicating use by Archaic, Formative, and Proto-historic Era peoples. The historic roadway, telegraph line and ranch complex indicate regional Euro - American activity from the early to mid-century, which is consistent with the homestead land patent records on file for the vicinity. The area surrounding the study location would have seen homesteading and exploration activities as far back as the late 1870s, based on the GLO survey plats. Hunting and trapping, farming and ranching, and mining served to draw settlers to the region over the years. In the project vicinity, land patent filings suggest an increase in settlement during the 1920s. This appears to correspond to the increased ease of access to the area in general. DETERMINATIONS OF EFFECT/MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (NHPA) directs the BLM to ensure that BLM-initiated or authorized actions do not inadvertently disturb or destroy significant cultural resource values. The eligibility determination and consultation process is guided by Section 106 of the NHPA (36 CFR 60, 63, and 800). BLM actions cannot be authorized until the Section 106 process is completed (36 CFR 800.3). An inventory such as this is the first step in the Section 106 process. As a result of the survey, one previously recorded site, 5MF948, a prehistoric rockshelter, was addressed. The site was relocated and found to be outside the current project area. It was re-recorded and re -mapped and remains eligible to the NRNP. Additionally, one prehistoric open camp (5MF7762), two historic sites (5MF7763 and 5MF7764), and two linear sites (5MF7765.1 and 5MF7540.2) were newly recorded. Site 5MF7762 is field evaluated as need data, sites 5MF7763 and 5MF7764 are field evaluated as not eligible and sites 5MF7765.1 and 5MF7540.2 are field evaluated as non -supporting segments of need data sites. Concerning the present project, avoidance is recommended for 5MF7762 and no further work is recommended for 5MF7763, 5MF7764, 5MF7765.1 and 5MF7540.2. Although the previously recorded site 5MF948 is located outside the current project area, it is recommended that any proposed plans for expansion of the mining activities into the canyon in which the site is located be curtailed and the entire canyon area be avoided by any surface disturbing activities or blasting. 41